PHP uses Throwable implementations including Error and Exception to represent runtime failures and application exceptions.
The examples below begin with the core behavior, then move to an application-oriented use.
How PHP Error Types and Exceptions Works
PHP uses Throwable implementations including Error and Exception to represent runtime failures and application exceptions.
Example 1: Basic Usage
This example uses a small input to make the main behavior visible.
<?php
try { throw new RuntimeException("Task failed"); } catch (Throwable $error) { echo $error->getMessage(); }Output:
Task failedPHP uses Throwable implementations including Error and Exception to represent runtime failures and application exceptions.
Example 2: A Different Input
A different set of values shows the same operation in another situation.
<?php
try { array_sum("invalid"); } catch (TypeError $error) { echo get_class($error); }Output:
TypeErrorCatch only the failures you can handle and avoid exposing raw stack traces to users.
Practical Example: Applying the Feature
This example shows an application-style use of the feature, with its surrounding setup visible.
<?php
try { strlen([]); } catch (TypeError $error) { echo get_class($error); }Output:
TypeErrorThe code is shown for learning. Adjust the class names, inputs and error handling to suit your application.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
- Catch only the failures you can handle and avoid exposing raw stack traces to users.
- PHP uses Throwable implementations including Error and Exception to represent runtime failures and application exceptions.
- Observe differences in empty inputs, invalid states and optional extension availability where relevant.
Comparison With Related Approaches
| Approach | Important Difference |
|---|---|
PHP Error Types and Exceptions | PHP uses Throwable implementations including Error and Exception to represent runtime failures and application exceptions. |
| Alternative approach | TypeError and ValueError describe invalid calls; domain exceptions can represent business-rule failures. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
Ignoring the documented state or precondition of PHP Error Types and Exceptions | Catch only the failures you can handle and avoid exposing raw stack traces to users. |
| Expecting a different type of result | Read the declared return type and distinguish returned values from changes to the source object. |
| Assuming a related API works identically | TypeError and ValueError describe invalid calls; domain exceptions can represent business-rule failures. |
Key Takeaways
- PHP uses Throwable implementations including Error and Exception to represent runtime failures and application exceptions.
- Catch only the failures you can handle and avoid exposing raw stack traces to users.
- Use the example that matches the values, runtime version and dependencies in your application.
PHP Error Types and Exceptions is useful when its behavior matches the data structure and lifecycle of your PHP application. Choose it with a clear understanding of its preconditions and returned values.